STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University and the Ennis Independent School District have agreed to a partnership designed to lend a hand to EISD seniors who want a college education.

EISD and Tarleton finalized an arrangement offering guaranteed admission and annual scholarships for the top 50 percent of the district’s high school graduates beginning with the 2022-23 academic year. 

As part of the Distinguished High School Partnership, Tarleton also will waive ACT (American College Test) or SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) requirements for students in the top half of their class and application fees for students who demonstrate financial need.

“Our reputation for student focus is growing,” said Tarleton President James Hurley. “With that comes our ability to attract high school seniors who want more than classroom knowledge. They want know-how. This collaboration aligns with our mission to provide a high-quality experience to students from across the region.”

Tarleton is developing similar agreements with other area school districts.

“Ennis ISD is excited to be a partner with Tarleton State University,” said district Superintendent Jay Tullos. “This partnership is an effective way to offer our students a great opportunity to continue their education.”

The President’s Guaranteed Scholarship Program assures first-time-in-college students graduating in the top half of their high school class between $500 and $4,000 in scholarships. Students graduating from one of Tarleton’s Distinguished High School Partners will receive an additional $500 or $1,000. Admitted freshmen must submit a general scholarship application to determine eligibility.

For more information on the President’s Guaranteed Scholarship Program, go to www.tarleton.edu/Guaranteed Scholarship. To learn how to become a Tarleton Texan, visit www.tarleton.edu/becomeatexan/index.html.

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.